Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has called on former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to retire from electoral contests in Nigeria. Atiku, who has made several unsuccessful bids for the presidency—including campaigns in 1993, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023—may run again in 2027, based on his recent statements and political movements.
During an interview with Voice of America Hausa earlier this year, the 77-year-old hinted at another potential run, stating, “God willing” when asked about the possibility.
However, Fayose, in a recent interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, suggested that Atiku should step aside. He remarked, “By the time Asiwaju [Bola Tinubu] finishes, Atiku will be 80 or 81. What will be the attraction? Nigerians are craving for younger leadership.”
Fayose emphasized that it’s important for Atiku to exit the political stage while still respected, noting, “We should leave the stage when the ovation is loudest.”
